What is significant about the Epic of Gilgamesh?

The Epic of Gilgamesh is significant primarily because it is one of the longest surviving pieces of cuneiform literature. Originating from ancient Mesopotamia, this epic poem dates back to around 2100 BCE and offers insight into the thoughts, beliefs, and culture of early civilizations. It encompasses themes such as friendship, the nature of humanity, mortality, and the quest for immortality, making it a foundational text in world literature. Its survival in various fragments and versions across time showcases its importance in the literary tradition and its role in influencing subsequent literary works.

While it does have elements that touch on religious themes, it was not primarily a religious text. The creation stories are present in other ancient texts, but they are not the focus of this epic. Although legal codes were part of Mesopotamian literature, they are not a defining characteristic of the Epic of Gilgamesh. Thus, its status as a lengthy surviving piece of cuneiform literature reflects its cultural and historical significance more than any of the other aspects mentioned.